Description
This comforting Pumpkin and Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for cozy meals. Featuring a blend of pumpkin purée, red lentils, and aromatic spices like chili powder and cumin, this soup delivers a rich and flavorful experience. The smooth texture achieved by blending balances the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the savory depth of vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 small to medium leeks (white parts only), chopped
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Ingredients
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups pumpkin purée
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 dashes Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the olive oil to a large pot and heat over medium-high. Sauté the chopped leek and onion for 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add Liquids and Vegetables: Pour in the vegetable broth and water, then add the pumpkin purée, sliced carrot, and red lentils. Stir in the Italian seasoning, ground cumin, and chili powder. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Soup: Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes, allowing the lentils and vegetables to cook through.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from heat and let the soup cool for at least 15 minutes. Blend the soup in batches until smooth using a blender or immersion blender. Return to pot if needed, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Allowing the soup to cool before blending prevents splattering and makes blending safer.
- For a thinner consistency, add additional vegetable broth or water when blending.
- You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor.
- Red lentils cook quickly and break down to create a creamy texture without needing additional thickeners.
